Who Is Tom Girardi and What Is His Current Status
Tom Girardi is a former high-profile personal injury attorney known for representing clients in major aviation and wrongful death cases. He co-founded the law firm Girardi & Keese, which gained recognition for large verdicts and celebrity clients. Recent public records confirm that Tom Girardi has not died, but he faces serious professional and legal consequences. His current status centers on disbarment, court sanctions, and ongoing litigation related to client trust fund misuse. For an overview of his career and firm history, see the Forbes profile on Tom Girardi.
The question "did Tom Girardi die" often appears alongside searches about his disbarment and legal troubles. Court filings and state bar records show that his law license was revoked after findings of misappropriating client funds. Girardi & Keese faced bankruptcy proceedings, and multiple former clients filed claims against the firm. Public documents describe a pattern of delayed or unpaid settlements and disputed case management. These developments have kept Tom Girardi in the news as a cautionary example in legal ethics discussions.
Key Legal Actions, Sanctions, and Financial Allegations
Disbarment and Court Sanctions
Tom Girardi was disbarred by the State Bar of California following a trial-level decision and appellate review. The State Bar found that he converted client settlement proceeds and failed to account for funds held in trust. In parallel, the court imposed sanctions related to discovery abuses and failure to comply with orders in multiple cases. These rulings are documented in California state court records and bar disciplinary actions. The California State Bar website provides access to attorney status and disciplinary records.
Client Trust Fund and Bankruptcy Issues
Girardi & Keese filed for bankruptcy, revealing significant liabilities tied to unpaid client settlements and creditor claims. Bankruptcy schedules listed substantial debts to former clients, creditors, and former partners. Court-appointed trustees examined the firm's trust accounts and reported shortfalls in client funds. Multiple clients have pursued claims to recover unpaid settlements and damages tied to the firm's handling of their cases. These financial issues are part of the public record in bankruptcy filings and related litigation.
Ongoing Litigation and Client Claims
Former clients and creditors continue to file claims and lawsuits connected to Girardi & Keese's handling of cases. Some matters involve aviation disasters, wrongful death suits, and large personal injury settlements. Court dockets show disputes over fee arrangements, settlement distribution, and case management practices. The outcomes of these cases may further shape the public narrative around Tom Girardi's career and legacy.
Regulatory and Ethical Context
Tom Girardi's case has drawn attention to attorney trust account rules and oversight mechanisms. State bar agencies and courts use these rules to protect client funds and enforce professional conduct standards. The situation illustrates how failures in trust accounting can lead to disbarment, firm collapse, and client harm. Regulatory focus remains on safeguarding client assets and ensuring transparent handling of settlement proceeds.
Public Record, Sources, and How to Verify Tom Girardi's Status
Public records, court documents, and bar disciplinary actions are the primary sources for verifying Tom Girardi's current legal and professional status. The State Bar of California maintains an attorney search tool that confirms license status and disciplinary history. Federal and state court filings, including bankruptcy records, provide details on claims, debts, and case outcomes. These records are accessible through official court and bar portals. The